SINGAPORE

OVERVIEW

Singapore in an exciting city which is reinventing itself as a top destination on many bucket lists. It can be a pricey city to visit but some great deals and fun attractions entice many travellers and tourists every year.

With temples, theme parks, zoos and a fascinating skyline, it is no wonder so many people love visiting Singapore. Perhaps one of the cleanest cities in the world, Singapore offers an abundance of attractions for people of all ages. Head to Universal Studios for a fun day out – perfect for families and young couples.

Typical Costs

Midrange Hotel rates – Double rooms in hotels start at at S$70 – with the Hotel 81 chain providing great offers and various locations across Singapore.

Luxury Hotel rates – There are some truly luxury hotels in Singapore, with rooms starting at S$180.

Transport – MRT single trips cost between S$1.40 – S$2.50, whilst the Singapore tourist pass offers unlimited train and bus travel for S$10 a day. Check fares beforehand when taking trishaws; prices can vary on depending on driver, area and time of day.

Average cost of food – Hawker centres (malls of inexpensive, street styled food) and food courts cost around S$6, whilst a two course dinner at a nice restaurant averages at S$60 and fine dining will cost you upwards of S$300. One night we ate out at the Chilis restaurant in Singapore and one starter, 2 mains, one dessert and a few beers and cocktails cost us S$120 between us.

Where to stay

Hostel/Budget – The Fisher BnB is a highly rated hostel with dorm beds starting at S$34 SGD and a private family room starting at S$36.50 per person.

Midrange – Venue Hotel The Lily, situated in the Katong Distrct, is modern, sleek hotel, set in a diverse and cultural area of Singapore. Private rooms start at S$73, with some great eats found in the local area of this place.

During our stay, we spent 3 nights at the Victoria Hotel, costing S$102 a night. Beds were comfy and the location was fantastic; just a short walk from restaurants and bars as well as the Harbour. The bus stop opposite the hotel got us to most attractions and a delicious BBQ joint is found at the bottom of the hotel. Plus a 7/11 is next door for snacks and change for the bus. However rooms weren’t massive so it is advised you choose the deluxe room if you want a bit more space.

Top End – The Resident at Singapore Recreation club is a popular hotel because of its location near the heart of Singapore as well as its facilities; offering bowling, billiards, spa pool, sane and gymnasium whilst also boasting the Padang Palace restaurants. Rooms start at S$176.

Just 5 minutes from Marina Bay Sands, the Peninsula Excelsior hotel is a fantastic hotel with stunning views of the Singapore skyline and luxurious space rooms, which start at S$186.

For those wishing to really splurge, spend a night at Marina Bay Sands, learn more about our amazing time here.

How to get there

Fly – Changi airport is regularly voted the world’s best airport and has become a major international gateway. Flights from all major cities around the world connect to Changi Airport with MRT train and public buses available into town between 5.30 to midnight from S$1.85 and the airport shuttle bus from 6am – midnight from S$9. Taxi rides into the centre costs between S$18 – S$40 depending on the distance of your hotel.

Train – Singapore is the southern station for the Malaysia railway System (KTM), with trains from Malaysia terminating at Woodland Train Checkpoint. The luxury Eastern and Oriental express travels between Bangkok and Singapore, worth a trip for big spenders.

Getting around

The MRT subway system is the fastest and most reliable way to get around Singapore, operating 5.30am – to midnight with trains running every 2 – 5 minutes. A map of the MRT network can be found at www.smrt.com.sg. When catching a taxi, make sure you head to designated taxi stands, as it is technically illegal for taxis to stop in the city centre anywhere but stands. Avoid catching taxis during peak hours or in the rain if you can. A ferry is available to visit the islands around Singapore, departing from Marina South Pier whilst is is advised you avoid cycling around this busy and hectic city. Buses are also available around Singapore and are clean and regular. Bus fares cost S$1 – S$2.10 and you are expected to drop the exact money in the fare box as you board the bus or tap you EZ-Link card or Singapore Tourist pass on the reader.

Planning your first visit to Las Vegas? Exciting! Las Vegas is a fast paced, exciting and colourful place that can sweep you off your feet and leave you with a 4 day hangover... and on that note, [...]